detective work

[/dɪˈtɛktɪv wɜrk/]
nounpl: detective work (uncountable)
trabalho de detetive
1. The investigative process of solving a crime or mystery through careful observation, analysis, and inquiry
The detective work involved interviewing witnesses and examining evidence at the crime scene.
O trabalho de detetive envolveu entrevistar testemunhas e examinar evidências na cena do crime.
2. Any methodical investigation or problem-solving process that requires careful attention to detail
Finding the bug in the code required some serious detective work.
Encontrar o bug no código exigiu um trabalho de detetive bem sério.
3. The work performed by a detective or investigator
Detective work can be dangerous and requires years of training.
O trabalho de detetive pode ser perigoso e exige anos de treinamento.
In Brazilian popular culture, detective work is often romanticized through crime dramas and novels. In the USA, the term is frequently used metaphorically in everyday language when someone is trying to solve any kind of mystery or problem, not just criminal cases. American police procedurals heavily influence how this concept is understood globally.
NYC Slang
gumshoe work; legwork
Synonyms / Sinônimos
investigationsleuthinginvestigative workinquiryfact-finding
Antonyms / Antônimos
oversightneglectignorance

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
trabalho de detetive
Most common term across Brazil
São Paulo
trabalho investigativo
More formal/professional usage
Rio de Janeiro
trabalho de investigação
Commonly used variant
Portugal
trabalho de investigação
Preferred term in European Portuguese; 'detetive' less commonly used

Related Words

detectiveinvestigationforensicsclueevidencesuspect

Related Idioms & Phrases

do some detective work - investigar, procurar informações
piece together - montar um quebra-cabeça de pistas
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